Haleiwa Chair by Melissa Mae Tan

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DI: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?

MMT : Keeping things simple and honest makes for a better design than one that has too much things going on.

DI: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?

MMT : I wanted to show the Philippine market that local designers and materials have great potential.

DI: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?

MMT : from concept to actual product took about 4-5 months.

DI: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?

MMT : this design was made as part of the initial collection of a company we are setting up, Beyond Function

DI: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?

MMT : This product is produced by our furniture manufacturing company that has been in operation since the 70s.

DI: What made you design this particular type of work?

MMT : As an architect working on various residential and retail projects, I saw the lack of locally designed and produced furniture that showcases local talent craftsmanship and materials.

DI: Who is the target customer for his design?

MMT : This chair was designed for everyone. It is a sleek, classy and versatile piece that is also very affordable.

DI: What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?

MMT : The use of an indigenous material, rattan, in such a modern approach is quite uncommon. The silhouette of the chair is a mix of modern and traditional which gives it a cozy feel but with an edgy detail.

DI: How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?

MMT : Haleiwa is a town in North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii. Growing up, I used to visit Oahu a lot and never passed up a chance to visit my favorite town. Like the chair, for me, Haleiwa is the epitome of a relaxing tropical sight. The chair makes me feel like i am on a relaxing tropical vacation.

DI: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?

MMT : I went traditional with this one and did not use any computer programs designing. Concept drawings were by hand and the actual making of the product was all handmade at well.

DI: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?

MMT : The most challenging for me was the analysis and balance between design aesthetics and structural integrity. Where to locate support members that it wont take away the look of the design.

DI: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?

MMT : I wanted to prove that our local talent is at par with international because I find that its been a trend here to always look for imported goods thinking they are better.